Asansör Yüklenicileri İçin Sigorta Hususları

A trusted broker can help navigate a complicated market.

by Ron Ward

When elevator contractors assess their insurance programs, they probably view their general liability and workers' comp policies as the most critical. While these two policies are essential, company owners need to keep in mind their fleet policy. Over the past few years, it has become a challenge finding commercial auto coverage from admitted carriers, which are the companies approved to sell insurance in their respective states and part of their state's guaranty fund.

Typically, the admitted carriers have more competitive premiums, as well as broader coverages. Since commercial vehicle insurance hasn't been profitable, the industry is pushing back with higher premiums, as well as non-renewals. Carriers may offer discounts to participate in their tracking device programs, making the savings appealing. Sometimes companies can flip the switch and use the drivers' data as a reason to non-renew the policy, even if there were not any claims.

To find or keep coverage from admitted carriers, it is beneficial for owners to develop their own driver selection criteria and vehicle maintenance plans. Underwriters prefer that the owners pull the employees' driving records pre-hire, as well as annually. Established policies and procedures are only as good as enforcement and adherence from the top down. It takes time and resources, but by demonstrating a culture of safety, underwriters may be more willing to keep current policies.

Developing company-specific risk management plans puts the owner in a better position to obtain or retain quality coverage. Underwriters may be more likely to offer coverage when owners purchase another line, such as property or equipment.

The current insurance market can be challenging to navigate to obtain proper coverage, proving the value of having a trusted insurance broker to advocate for the owner. Since drivers present one of the greatest liability threats, it is worthwhile to ensure the right coverage is in place to protect the company's assets.

Contractor-Controlled Insurance Programs
On larger projects, elevator contractors may find themselves in a CCIP (Contractor-Controlled Insurance Program) or an OCIP (Owner-Controlled Insurance Program). In these jobs, the insured’s policies will not apply since the project insurance covers all parties involved.
It is important for contractors to obtain a certificate from the program administrator to provide proof of coverage, since the payroll for that project does not count toward the following year’s audit. For it to not affect the audit, the contractors are responsible for obtaining and sending in the certificate to their insurance companies.

About Ronnie JL Ward & Son Insurance
Ronnie JL Ward & Son Insurance has been family-owned and operated for more than 50 years. The company specializes in meeting the insurance and bonding needs for elevator contractors and inspectors, nonprofit organizations, company fleet vehicles, small businesses, condominium associations and churches.
As an independent agent, the company seeks to provide excellent personalized customer service and attention to detail with a prompt response to questions and requests. Many clients have a longstanding, 10-plus-year relationship with the company.